American Red Cross urges Rock River Valley residents to get ready for winter weather

has finally arrived, the Rock River Chapter of the American Red Cross recommends taking a few steps that will help you stay safe and prepared throughout the season.

Winter storms can knock down power lines, make travel difficult because of icy road conditions and keep people isolated in their homes for several days,

said Emergency Services Director Dave Pattengale.
That’s why now is the perfect time to get ready before severe winter weather hits our area.

The Red Cross recommends stocking up on easy-to-prepare foods, medications for family members, diapers, baby formula, pet food, extra batteries for flashlights, and hygiene items like toilet paper and tissues. Make sure you have enough wood or coal for fireplaces or coal-burning stoves. Also, the Red Cross offers the following ideas to help stay safe during winter storms:

Tips for staying safe at home

• Be careful with candles—do not use candles for lighting if the power goes out. Use flashlights only.

• Prevent frozen pipes—when the weather is very cold outside, open cabinet doors to let warm air circulate around water pipes. Let the cold water drip from the faucet served by exposed pipes. Running water through the pipe—even at a trickle—helps prevent pipes from freezing because the temperature of the water running through it is above freezing. Keep the thermostat set to a consistent temperature.

• Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.

• If you plan on using a fireplace to stay warm, keep a glass or metal fire screen around the fireplace and never leave a lit fire unattended.

• If using a space heater, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to safely use the heater. Place it on a level, hard, nonflammable surface. Turn the space heater off when you leave the room or go to sleep. Keep children and pets away from your space heater, and do not use it to dry wet clothing.

• Check on your animals and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or obstacles. If possible, bring them indoors.

Tips for protecting yourself

while outdoors and traveling

• When possible, stay indoors during the storm.

• Walk carefully on snowy, icy sidewalks and stairs.

• Dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, which will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat.

• Mittens provide more warmth to your hands than gloves. Wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears.